PIC16C57-HSE/SP
PIC16C57-HSE/SP - 8-Bit 16MHz OTP MCU 3KB | Microchip
The Microchip Technology PIC16C57-HSE/SP is an 8-bit EPROM/ROM-based CMOS microcontroller from the PIC16C5X family, operating at 16MHz with an external HS oscillator configuration and packaged in a 28-pin SPDIP (Skinny Plastic DIP) through-hole form factor. The HSE suffix denotes the high-speed external oscillator mode, the SP suffix denotes 28-pin SPDIP package, and the device is qualified to the automotive temperature grade. According to the Microchip product listing, the device integrates 3KB (2K x 12) of One-Time-Programmable (OTP) program memory and 72 bytes of RAM, with 20 general-purpose I/O pins split across two ports (RA and RB).
An 8-bit PIC microcontroller (MCU) is a RISC-based single-chip computer that combines a CPU core, non-volatile program memory, working RAM, and programmable I/O peripherals on a single silicon die. PIC microcontrollers sit within the broader hierarchy of microcontroller -> embedded processor -> semiconductor IC. The PIC16C5X family specifically targets cost-sensitive, low-to-moderate-performance embedded applications where deterministic instruction execution, simple peripheral sets, and ROM/EPROM-based program storage provide the best price-to-performance ratio. The OTP variant allows one-time factory or in-circuit programming, which is typical for mature 8-bit designs with stable firmware.
Key features include 33 single-word instructions, a 12-bit wide instruction word enabling 2:1 code compression over typical 8-bit CISC architectures, two 8-bit I/O ports, an 8-bit timer/counter (TMR0) with an 8-bit programmable prescaler, a Watchdog Timer (WDT) with on-chip RC oscillator for reliable recovery, and Power-On Reset (POR). The device supports an operating voltage range commonly cited as 3.0V to 6.25V across the PIC16C5X family, with low-power CMOS construction. Its 28-pin SPDIP package is through-hole, simplifying prototype and low-volume production assembly.
Architecturally, the PIC16C57 uses a Harvard RISC core with separate program and data buses, a two-stage pipeline, and a single accumulator (W register) working model. The 16MHz maximum clock yields a 250ns instruction cycle, and the OTP memory is windowless, requiring UV erasure only for prototype parts (JW package). For production runs, OTP parts ship pre-programmed. The HSE oscillator mode allows use of high-frequency external crystals or oscillators, distinguishing it from HS (standard) and RC variants.
Typical applications include automotive body controllers and appliance control, simple sensor signal conditioning, LED and relay driver sequencing, industrial timer/counter modules, low-cost consumer electronics, and legacy embedded control boards. The wide operating temperature range and OTP memory make it suitable for high-volume fixed-function products where firmware does not need field updates.
When designing with this part, choose the HS oscillator mode for higher clock accuracy and select capacitors matched to the crystal load capacitance. Ensure unused I/O pins are configured as outputs to minimize power consumption and reduce noise susceptibility. For modern designs requiring in-field reprogrammability, consider migrating to the Flash-based PIC16F57 or PIC16F884 equivalents; the PIC16C57-HSE/SP is best suited for mature, frozen-firmware production runs.
This page synthesizes real-time distributor pricing, pin-compatible same-family alternatives (PIC16C57-HSE/SO, PIC16C57-10I/P, PIC16C57-10E/SS), and practical design notes that go beyond the manufacturer datasheet.
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